Rules and Regulations

Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge regulations are designed to protect the cranes, to preserve natural, scenic and wildlife values and to enhance public safety and enjoyment of the refuge. The following is a general summary of refuge regulations:

Refuge Hours Visitors are welcome to recreate in the refuge during daylight hours only. The refuge visitor center is open from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and is closed on all Federal holidays. The entrance gate at Crane Lane closes at 5:00 p.m. CST

Hiking Hiking is permitted on designated refuge trails.

ClosuresAreas within refuge boundaries may be closed to public entry due to sensitive species or restoration activities. Be aware of signs indicating closed areas.

DogsDogs are allowed in certain areas of the refuge, such as the designated hiking trails and Visitor Center grounds. They must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of other visitors and pick up after your pet.

Horseback RidingHorseback riding is not permitted at the refuge.

Bicycles Visitors may ride bicycles along the Crane Lane entrance corridor. Bicycles are not allowed on refuge trails.

Camping There is no camping at the refuge, however, camping can be found at nearby Shepard State Park in Gautier, MS (call 228-497-2244 or visit http://shepardstatepark.com/ for more information)

Fires Fires are prohibited.

Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping Mississippi sandhill cranes are a critically endangered species that is very sensitive to disturbance. In order to protect the cranes, hunting, fishing and trapping are not allowed on the refuge.